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2023 Polestar 2 - 'Service Required' and Reduced Performance Mode

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 22, 7:40 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor

Hey everyone,

I'm having a really frustrating issue with my 2023 Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor. While driving yesterday, I suddenly got a 'Service Required' message pop up on the center display, and the car immediately went into a reduced performance mode. It felt like I had significantly less power, and acceleration was very sluggish.

There wasn't any specific warning light like a traditional Check Engine Light, just the 'Service Required' and the performance drop. I pulled over, turned the car off and on again, but the message and reduced power persisted. It's making me nervous to drive it.

Has anyone experienced this with their Polestar 2? What could be causing this? I'm wondering if it's something I can check myself before taking it to the dealer, or if this is definitely a 'tow it in' situation. Any advice on common diagnostic steps or potential issues would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 7:40 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Experiencing a 'Service Required' message coupled with reduced performance in your 2023 Polestar 2 can be concerning, but it's a common way for modern EVs to signal an underlying issue. This 'reduced performance mode' is essentially a limp-home mode designed to protect critical components.

Here are the steps and potential causes:

  1. Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Even without a traditional Check Engine Light, your Polestar 2's onboard diagnostics system will have stored codes. A generic OBD-II scanner might pick up some basic powertrain codes (P-codes), but a more advanced scanner or a visit to a Polestar service center will be able to read manufacturer-specific codes (B, C, U codes) which are crucial for pinpointing the exact issue. Look for codes related to the high-voltage system, battery management, or communication errors.

  2. Check the 12V Battery: This is a surprisingly common culprit for a wide array of seemingly complex issues in EVs, including Polestar. A weak or failing 12V battery can cause various control modules to malfunction or communicate incorrectly, leading to 'Service Required' messages and reduced performance, even though the main high-voltage battery might be perfectly fine. You can test its voltage with a multimeter (should be around 12.6V when off, 13.5-14.5V when charging).

  3. Potential Causes:

    • 12V Battery Failure: As mentioned, this is a prime suspect.
    • High Voltage (HV) System Fault: Issues with the main traction battery, inverter, motor, or related sensors can trigger this. This could range from a minor sensor glitch to a more significant component failure.
    • Brake System or Drive System Sensor Malfunction: Modern EVs integrate many systems. A fault in a wheel speed sensor, torque sensor, or other drive-related component can put the car into limp mode.
    • Software Glitch: Less common, but sometimes a temporary software anomaly can cause these warnings. A full system reset (often done by disconnecting the 12V battery for a few minutes, then reconnecting) can sometimes clear these, but only attempt if you're comfortable and know how to safely do so.

  4. When to See a Shop: Given that your vehicle is in reduced performance mode and displaying a 'Service Required' message, it is highly recommended to have it inspected by a certified Polestar service center as soon as possible. Driving in this mode for extended periods, especially if the issue is related to the high-voltage system, could potentially lead to further damage or safety concerns. They have the specialized diagnostic tools and expertise to accurately diagnose and repair the problem.

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